Interview Noord Hollands Dagblad

An interview in the Dutch Newspaper Het Noord Hollands Dagblad by Nanska van de Laar, about my work and exhibition Inner Movement.

(English translation below)

Interview: Monique Belier Makes Her Home Debut

Images That Speak Body Language

She has exhibited in Amsterdam and Paris, but doing so in Bovenkarspel feels particularly nerve-wracking. Still, it was time to take the plunge, so photographer Monique Belier is showcasing her work this weekend at the Meisjesschool.

Bovenkarspel

Her home debut makes her a bit nervous, Monique admits as she walks up the stairs to her studio in the former Meisjesschool. “It’s different when you do this in your own environment.”

The former dance instructor and dancer from Bovenkarspel found a new love through the camera, and after experiencing burnout, she discovered a new focus. Last year, she graduated from the Photo Academy in Amsterdam with her project *Where the Spirit Meets the Bone*, which immediately drew attention.

“That book really set everything in motion. Without planning it, I kind of put myself on the map.”

Personal Interpretation

Monique never intended to photograph dance. “I find that a bit dull, so I just started experimenting a lot until I created images that no longer felt like dance or just a beautiful pose. It became something else—it became a story.”

A story that makes the unspoken visible, as body language is Monique’s native tongue. That same language translates into her photography. “When you dance, it’s the most natural language, but figuring out how to convey that in still images is a challenge. Suddenly, they become fragments.”

Those fragments are expressive, and together, they form a powerful visual language—one Monique continues to explore in greater depth. “While working on my graduation project, I read *Vaslav* by Arthur Japin, about Vaslav Nijinsky, and his story deeply moved me.”

Nijinsky

So much so that Monique decided to delve into the life of this legendary dancer (1890–1950). “There isn’t much known about him after he was admitted to a clinic, where he remained for the rest of his life. He hardly spoke and no longer danced, yet he was a genius. I want to visualize what was going on inside his mind. Of course, it’s still my own personal interpretation. It won’t be a documentary or a factual account of his life, but rather a dialogue between his language and mine.”

She sees parallels with her own life. “I don’t want to compare myself to him, but I also stopped dancing. The question is: does that mean you’re no longer a dancer? Of course not—dance continues to play a role in your mind.”

“When I read his diaries, I strongly feel the urgency with which he tried to translate his emotions into language. I feel that same urgency to express mine through images. I used to communicate through dance, and I had to find a new way to do that.”

Nijinsky’s struggles with depression also resonate with Monique. She openly shares that she has an anxiety disorder—she doesn’t drive and avoids escalators. “I’m not ashamed of it. I talk about it, and I hear more and more people admitting their fears. I believe we should be open about these things and not make a big deal out of them. Honestly, I’d rather stay at home under a blanket, but that’s not a life.”

From Paris to Bovenkarspel

Despite these challenges, she has an inner drive that keeps her moving. After her graduation project, she created a short photo series about anxiety disorders and then started *In Search of Nijinsky*. “A selection from these three projects was featured in my first solo exhibition, *Inner Movement*, last summer at Atelier K84 in Amsterdam. I then participated in a group exhibition in Paris. It was incredible to see my work displayed there. You can’t even imagine that while you’re still in school—just surreal.”

From Paris to Bovenkarspel, where this weekend she presents *Inner Movement*. “My husband suggested that people here might also enjoy seeing my work, but I thought, ‘Why would anyone care about my art?’ I don’t even like being in the spotlight. I’m happy to talk about my work, but you won’t catch me standing on a stage.”

Yet, after six months of contemplation, she decided to take the step—and now, in her own modest way, she will stand on that dreaded stage. “I’ll say something about my work. I hate it, but it’s good practice. Exhibiting here in Bovenkarspel is exciting, but I already know that after this weekend, I’ll need time to recover. It’s intense and overwhelming.”

Hometown exhibition

(English below)

Na een aantal weken het wat rustiger aan te hebben gedaan, is het tijd voor iets nieuws.
In het weekend van 31 januari exposeer ik in mijn eigen dorp—het dorp waar ik ben opgegroeid en waar ik nu woon.

Op een prachtige locatie, de voormalige Meisjesschool in Bovenkarspel, waar ik ook mijn studio heb, zal ik het hele weekend mijn werk exposeren.
De expositie toont beelden uit mijn boekproject Where the Spirit Meets the Bone, samen met een introductie en experimenteel werk uit mijn huidige project In Search for Nijinsky. Daarnaast presenteer ik een tweeluik getiteld Treading Water, alles verbonden door het overkoepelende thema Inner Movement.

Het is de eerste keer dat ik in mijn eigen dorp exposeer, en eerlijk gezegd vind ik het een beetje spannender dan normaal.
Misschien is dat ook de reden dat ik het zo lang heb uitgesteld. Toch ben ik blij met deze beslissing—mijn werk komt mooi tot zijn recht tegen de oude muren van de school. De ruimte voegt echt iets bijzonders toe en is een van de weinige plekken in ons dorp die beschikbaar zijn voor kunstenaars.
Dat ik 17 jaar lang mijn theaterschool in dit dorp heb gerund, maakt het extra speciaal om hier nu te exposeren.

Vernissage:
31 januari
19:00–21:00

Te bezoeken:
1 & 2 februari
12:00–17:00

Adres: Hoofdstraat 201, Bovenkarspel - Atelier op de 1e verdieping (geen lift)
(Parkeren aan de achterkant en station Bovenkarspel - Flora op 5 minuten loopafstand)

After taking it a bit easier for a few weeks, it's time for new things again.
On the weekend of January 31st, I’ll be exhibiting in my own village—the place where I grew up and where I still live.

At a beautiful location, the former Girls' School in Bovenkarspel, where I also have my studio, I’ll be showcasing my work throughout the weekend.

The exhibition features images from my book project Where the Spirit Meets the Bone, alongside an introduction to and experimental work from my current project In Search for Nijinsky. Additionally, I’ll be presenting a diptych titled Treading Water, all connected by the overarching theme of Inner Movement.

This is the first time I’m exhibiting in my own village, and I must admit, it feels a little more exciting than usual.
Perhaps that’s also why I’ve postponed it for so long. Still, I’m glad I made this decision—the work fits well within the old walls of the school. The space adds a unique atmosphere and is one of the few places available to artists in our village.

Having run my theater school in this village for 17 years makes it feel even more special to exhibit here now.

Vernissage:
January 31
19:00–21:00

Open to visit:
February 1 & 2
12:00–17:00

Address: Hoofdstraat 201, Bovenkarspel - Studio on the 1st floor (no elevator)
(Parking at the back and Bovenkarspel - Flora station within 5 minutes walking distance)

Berlin

The last trip of 2024 was to Berlin—a small holiday together with my love. I had never been to Berlin before, and I fell in love with the city straight away. We walked for hours without a plan, and I simply took photos of things that resonated with me or inspired me. It felt more like practice than a purposeful endeavor.

On New Year’s Eve, I got sick again—a mild cold caught me, but it made me reflect on my health. Last year was incredibly hectic, filled with adventures and amazing opportunities, but it was also a bit overwhelming.

In the coming year, instead of constantly running around, I want to focus on my latest project. Hopefully, by the end of the year, I’ll complete a dummy for my new book. I also want to leave some space for unexpected things that might come my way.

Akrotiri & Fira, Santorini

A series of images shot between September 15 and 22, 2024 during and after a masterclass by Raymond Meeks organized by Palm Tree workshops in Akrotiri.

Reflection on my exhibition Inner Movement

The past few weeks have flown by, and now my exhibition at atelier K84 has come to an end. With the help of Cees Beuzenkom, I was able to set up the space exactly as I had envisioned it. After a wonderful opening, with beautiful words from Maurice Laudy and Boris Hamilton, I was present every Friday and Saturday at the gallery space on Keizersgracht 84 in Amsterdam.

The people who came to see my exhibition made it a truly valuable experience for me. So many stories and such a diverse group of people. Some took the time to read everything, ask questions, and really understand my work. Others stood visibly moved in the middle of the space, where no words were needed. Some came by just to see me, bringing gifts or treats, while others were genuinely proud and happy for me.

Visitors came from the United States, Australia, Brazil, South Korea, and of course, the Netherlands, each with their own remarkable stories. They wanted to take photos with the work or with me, and later shared those moments. Others inspired me with their own art, sparking deep conversations about navigating the often complex world of art. I didn’t want to simply move on to the next thing without pausing to reflect on this. I wanted to fully appreciate how beautiful this experience has been.

A special highlight was the collaboration with Self Publisher United, particularly with Wies den Ouden. We spent a wonderful afternoon focused on photobooks. The partnership with Saskia de Vries and Sarah van Eijk was equally memorable, as they delivered a stunning performance inspired by my work, featuring live violin music, spoken word, and dance.

Now, it’s time to move on. This weekend, I’ll take everything off the walls to make room for the next exhibitor. Next weekend, I’m heading to Greece for a new adventure—a masterclass led by Raymond Meeks—and after that... I think I might need some rest.

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Lina’s head - available in a small edition of prints / framed

Origini Edizioni in Livorno

When I was still studying at the photo academy and was looking for the publisher in the book ‘Geography of Abandonment’ by Raymond Meeks, I stumbled upon the name of a small publishing house in Italy, Origini Edizioni to be precise. I discovered that they had published a beautiful collection of handmade photo books, and I immediately became a big fan.

I started following them on Instagram, and the bookbinder Eugenia Koval regularly posted mesmerizing videos of her craft.
I hoped to one day get the chance to go there to see how they work and to show them my work.

And last week I returned from my trip to Livorno (Italy) after spending four long days in their atelier. Along with a group of a total of 12 people, under the guidance of Ilias Geordgiadis, Matilde Vittoria Laricchia, and Eugenia Koval, we worked during our Masterclass, on the most beautiful book dummies and were filled with knowledge, design, and techniques.

What an overwhelming experience that was. A Masterclass I won’t soon forget.

I was a bit hesitant at first because I was actually very tired before I left, but thanks to the wonderful group of people, I regained so much energy that it ended up doing me a lot of good. Full of new courage and inspiration, I am now brimming with ideas for my second book.

I forgot who took the photo. But we are looking at the beautiful work of Jennifer Baron (The Netherlands)

All the book dummies

Eugenia working her magic on a very old book I got from my father for my eighteenth birthday.

A Turkish fold made of some new work I shot just before I left to Italy. For me it is an experiment to see my work in a different form.

Review in a German Magazine: Dance for You Magazine

Dance for You Magazine is a German Magazine. I was very pleased and happy with the review of my book by Volkmar Draeger. Translation in English below.

Englisch translation

BOOK: "Where the Spirit Meets the Bone"

Monique Belier's Body Impressions

Monique Belier seeks those fleeting moments in the transition between movements when dancers are unaware of their actions. In one of her bass-colored commentaries on otherwise empty pages. "Where the Spirit Meets the Bone." The title, inspired by a poem from the late American poet Miller Williams, who passed away in 2015, encapsulates Belier's artistic essence—connecting mind and body, depicting the essence of human movement, and narrating stories through the language of the body.

A 2023 graduate of the Photo Academy in Amsterdam, Monique Belier reassures viewers that she, like a young farmer adapting to nature, captures the essence of the moment. Her photographs are not posed but rather capture fragmented moments, dissolving into unique body parts. Some shots evoke the spontaneity reminiscent of François Truffaut's "Wild Child," whether it's the flowing hair in the breeze or the tense stillness within the growing grass. The body, always integrated into its surroundings, appears against the backdrop of a woodland or a masonry. Hands speak, bodies bend and twist, legs stretch between the ground and a tree, and one foot connects with the earth while another points toward an object, telling a story of shattered narratives.

The portrayed subjects wear clothes, yet the focus is not on the attire but on the ritual's revelation. The photographer captures what is essential, uncovering the nuances revealed in "Tanzer am Strand" or the woman pressing against a peeling wall in "Elea." Belier's double-blessed photos, predominantly in black and white, offer a photographic panorama of discreet sensitivity. The book, featuring almost 120 illuminated pages and showcasing nearly 50 photos, spans a range of moods, from contemplation to agitation, encapsulating the diverse forms of expression that characterize Belier's work.

In this collection, Belier, connected to the third decade of the 21st century, brings forth the essence of the past two decades. The photographs, arranged with a keen sensibility, convey a variety of expressions. The book, a testament to Monique Belier's artistry, invites viewers to delve into the silent stories captured behind the lens.

Volkmar Draeger

My book at Foam!

I was very happy and proud to receive an email from Lotte Klösters, the manager of the Bookshop at Foam (Foto Museum Amsterdam) that they wanted to add my book ‘Where the spirit meets the bone’ to their collection of books. Something that was on my wishlist for a while.

Exhibition Galerie Calabro in Zurich

My first international exhibition is a fact. Very proud to exhibit my work at Galerie Calabro in Zurich. The Galerie just opened a new and beautiful location and they celebrate this with an openings exhibition.

The opening exhibition presents a fascinating variety of styles and techniques. The participating artists come from different countries and represent various stages of development in their artistic careers.

From 10-01-2024 till 24-01-2024

About Galerie Calabro

“Over the years of visiting countless exhibitions, galleries and openings all over the world, the idea of a gallery has emerged. A gallery where visitors feel comfortable and have no hesitation in walking in, where all artists are treated with respect and appreciation. A creative meeting point where art lovers and artists meet at equal terms.

As a very experienced and passionate art enthusiast, I have developed a unique instinct to guarantee the high artistic value of the works I select. Everyone has the chance to be exhibited at the Calabro Gallery. I only consider artistic quality and integrity.”

Paulina Calabrò
www.galeriecalabro.com

Overview Exhibion Galerie Calabro 2024
Photos by: Galerie Galabro

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Online Catalogue Galerie Calabro 2024

Monochrome Photography Awards 2024

Very happy to announce that my submission is rewarded with an Honorable Mention in the Professional Conceptual Category from the Monochrome Photography Awards (international Black & White Photography Contest.

Go to the: Winners Gallery

GUP FRESH EYES International talent of 2023

I got selected for FRESH EYES 2023 International talent by GUP and that means you got featured in one of the books and being part of a group exhibition in Amsterdam.
Being published among a select group of photographers from different corners of the globe was a true honor. It was not only a recognition of my work but also an opportunity to connect with a diverse community of photographers who share a passion for visual storytelling.

About FRESH EYES

Since 2019, FRESH EYES has celebrated the best photography talent in Europe. It is a guide book presenting the greatest 100 emerging image makers the continent has to offer. Powered by GUP Magazine, FRESH EYES brings talent to the attention of galleries, museums, commercial and photography agencies, media companies and institutions that work with imagery.  

Each year our expert jury selects a fresh batch of upcoming artists from a diverse array of backgrounds — freshly graduated photography students and autodidactic photographers among them — all of whom are making their first foray into the exciting world that is photography. Whether as a collector, curator, publisher, fellow artist, or simply a photography aficionado, FRESH EYES is sure to provide you a compelling, varied outlook on the state of affairs in contemporary photography today, through the eyes of this exciting new generation of photographers.

In 2023, we introduced FRESH EYES International: our worldwide Open Call that invites photographers from across the globe to show us their vision and expertise in their chosen photographic field.

Fresh Eyes International Talent by Gup 2023

Fresh Eyes International Talent by Gup 2023

Group exhibition, Fresh Eyes International Talent by Gup 2023